General information about drive shafts (Opel Vectra C)

1. From the side gears of the differential, the torque developed by the engine is transmitted to the front (driving) wheels via two drive shafts of unequal length. On diesel models and petrol models with high-power engines, torque is transmitted to the right front wheel using an additional intermediate shaft.

2. The right and left drive shafts are equipped with inner and outer constant velocity joints (CV joints). The models considered in this Manual are equipped with double compensation CV joints.

3. The journals of the outer hinges are provided with splines that ensure articulation with the wheel hubs. On the outer side of the hubs, the journals of the hinges are fixed with large hub nuts (see Chapter 10). The internal joints are also splined into a sliding connection with the side gears of the differential and are secured with retaining rings. Intermediate shaft (with appropriate equipment) one end of the shaft is splined into engagement with the differential side gear, the other end of the shaft is secured in the intermediate support (bracket) and is connected to the right drive shaft also using a splined connection.

(Text copied from an online resource: «OpelBook.ru»)